The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs stands in unity with Grand Chief Verna Polson and the Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation
July 2, 2019
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
AMC Communications
Treaty One Territory, Winnipeg, Manitoba _ The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) stands in solidarity with Grand Chief Verna Polson and the Algonquin Nation as they protest the lack of consultation with the Algonquin landowners of the former US embassy building in Ottawa, Ontario.
Grand Chief Verna Polson of the Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation Tribal Council is occupying a traditional wigwam on the sidewalk in front of 100 Wellington Street, the now-vacant building situated on unceded Algonquin territory across from the House of Commons. Grand Chief Polson vows to continue protesting the plan for the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), and the Métis National Council (MNC) to split the space without respecting the rights of the Algonquin Nation. The Algonquin Nation has announced its desire to be equal partners in the building.
“The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs stands in unity with Grand Chief Verna Polson and the Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation,” said Grand Chief Arlen Dumas. “All people must respect the traditional lands of each sovereign Nation, and no organization or political body can override the Nations’ rights without their expressed consent. The building at 100 Wellington Avenue is ultimately standing on the traditional unceded territory of the Algonquin Nation and they must have a seat at the table in any discussion regarding its use or purpose. We are sending strength and support to Grand Chief Polson and the Algonquin Nation at this time.”